by Kevin Zimmermann
Wisconsin winters have a reputation for snow and cold, but as much of the state woke up to fog and heavy frost, emergency rooms were prepared for the anticipated influx of people suffering from slips and falls. And Friday night’s surprise 3-5 inch snowfall in the area brought with it the risk of vehicle accidents, over-exertion from snow shoveling, and injuries from snowblowers.
While many mishaps can be treated at home, HSHS Hospitals which include Sheboygan’s St. Nicholas are urging people to get proper emergency care when needed, even during a pandemic.
Dr. Angela Wright, an HSHS emergency medicine physician from Green Bay says they see a variety of injuries that need the special treatment they provide, but it’s much better to avoid injuries in the first place. Dr. Wright advises that people treat all pavement as if it were slippery since black ice can be invisible. Walk slowly, take short strides and keep your hands out of your pockets for better balance.
Avoid snow shoveling if you have a history of heart problems, wear light clothing in layers for better warmth and ventilation, warm up before going out, and come in for a break if you feel over-exerted. And if all efforts fail to prevent a serious fall or accident, call 911 for help.
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